Waikato Expressway SH1 closed southbound from Te Kauwhata after serious crash

A serious crash between a car and pedestrian closed part of the Waikato Expressway this morning. Photo / NZME

A serious crash involving a pedestrian has closed part of the Waikato Expressway near Te Kauwhata this morning.

The expressway is closed southbound, from the Te Kauwhata and Rangiriri on-ramps, after a person was hit by a vehicle.

Police were called around 7am.

The Serious Crash Unit has been advised and the expressway is expected to remain closed for some time while emergency services work at the scene, police said.

Motorists are advised to avoid the area and expect delays.

The New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi said the detour for southbound traffic was via the Te Wharepu Rd off-ramp, turning right on Glen Murray Rd, continuing on Te Ohaki Rd, then Harris St, before turning left on Tainui Bridge Rd, right on Great South Rd, continuing on Gordonton Rd and joining back on SH1.

A Fire and Emergency New Zealand spokesperson said it received a call to the incident at 7.11am and responded with three crews, one from Te Kauwhata and two from Huntly.

“We just assisted police and ambulance. No one was trapped.”

St John Ambulance has been approached for comment.